In recent decades, companies throughout the U.S. have taken on the challenge of creating inclusive workplaces and leveraging diversity to improve business performance.

As they have expanded their efforts overseas, many such companies have made the mistake of assuming that “diversity” is understood the same way in other geographies as it is in the U.S.

The truth is that while many of the same principles used in domestic diversity, equity and inclusion work also apply to intercultural work internationally, there are also many important differences. D&I and L&D departments should be mindful of these differences, and be sure that their programs align with their globalizations strategy and goals.